SAMHSA Bloghttp://blog.samhsa.gov/feed
enSAMHSA Urges Focus on Synergistic Epidemics of Substance Use Disorder, HIV, and Viral Hepatitishttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/02/20/samhsa-urges-focus-on-synergistic-epidemics-of-substance-use-disorder-hiv-and-viral-hepatitis-1
By: Tammy R. Beckham, DVM, PhD, Director, Office of HIV/AIDS and Infectious Disease Policy, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health
Cross-posted from HHS Viral Hepatitis Blog
Summary:
SAMHSA chief urges grantees and partners to address infectious diseases as integral part of the response to the substance use disorders epidemic.
In a “Dear Colleague” letter sent to grantees of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) late last year, Elinore McCance-Katz, M.D., Ph.D., the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, put a spotlight on HIV and viral hepatitis – the often hidden consequences of the substance use disorder epidemic – and called on the public health and substance abuse disorders communities to strengthen coordinated efforts to address them. She stated,2019-02-20 01:02:08SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/02/20/samhsa-urges-focus-on-synergistic-epidemics-of-substance-use-disorder-hiv-and-viral-hepatitis-1Suicide—and a Reflection on Our Changing American Societyhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/24/suicide-and-a-reflection-on-our-changing-american-society
By: Elinore F. McCance-Katz, MD, PhD, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released data on the ten leading causes of death in the United States recently. Tragically, suicide—too often a consequence of untreated mental illness and substance use disorders, and as such a preventable condition—remains on that list as the 10th leading cause of death for adults and the second-leading cause of death in our youth.1 Suicide rates increased from 29,199 deaths in 1996 to 47,173 deaths in 2017.2What are the contributors to the state of mind that ends in a person taking their own life? What can government do about this? What responsibility do we have to each other to take actions that will alter this course? These are questions of great importance, because rising deaths by suicide say something about the conditions under which our people live and die and about our society at large.2019-01-24 04:35:09SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/24/suicide-and-a-reflection-on-our-changing-american-society Struggling with Addiction? Tips on Finding Quality Treatment http://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/23/struggling-with-addiction-tips-on-finding-quality-treatment
By: Anne M. Herron, M.S., Acting Director, SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
It can be overwhelming and confusing to know where to start if you need to find treatment for an alcohol or drug addiction. Addiction touches nearly everyone in some way, yet, like all health care, effective treatment must be tailored to the needs of the individual. With many addiction treatment options, finding a program that will provide the quality care you or your loved one needs to address the specific addiction issues can be challenging. These steps will help you know what to look for to find a treatment program that is high quality and tailored to your needs.
2019-01-23 10:19:40SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/23/struggling-with-addiction-tips-on-finding-quality-treatmentSAMHSA Launches the 2019 Communities Talk: Town Hall Meetings to Prevent Underage Drinkinghttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/14/samhsa-launches-the-2019-communities-talk-town-hall-meetings-to-prevent-underage-drinking
By: Luis Vasquez, LICSW, Acting Director, SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
2019-01-14 07:58:43SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/14/samhsa-launches-the-2019-communities-talk-town-hall-meetings-to-prevent-underage-drinkingNew Year’s Resolution 2019: Tobacco-Free Recoveryhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/02/new-years-resolution-2019-tobacco-free-recovery
By: Doug Tipperman, MSW, Tobacco Policy Liaison, SAMHSA Office of Intergovernmental and External Affairs
2019-01-02 02:25:46SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2019/01/02/new-years-resolution-2019-tobacco-free-recoverySuccesses, Challenges, Opportunities: World AIDS Day 2018http://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/30/successes-challenges-opportunities-world-aids-day-2018
By: Tammy R. Beckham, DVM, PhD, Acting Director, Office of HIV/AIDS and Infectious Disease Policy, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Cross post from HIV.gov Blog
World AIDS Day is a time to reflect on those we've lost to HIV/AIDS, as well as on how much progress we've made in the national response to HIV. It's also an important opportunity to assess where we need to improve and what our next steps should be.
Our Successes
We continue to make progress toward achieving our goals of reducing new HIV infections, improving health outcomes among people living with HIV, and reducing some HIV-related disparities. Reaching these goals will require that we sustain the progress we have already made and accelerate efforts, efficiently and effectively, across HIV prevention, treatment, and care services and programs. Today, we have highly effective tools to help us continue and accelerate that trend. For example:2018-11-30 01:42:51SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/30/successes-challenges-opportunities-world-aids-day-2018Addressing Opioid Use Disorder with Mothers-to-Behttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/28/addressing-opioid-use-disorder-with-mothers-to-be
2018-11-28 10:22:38SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/28/addressing-opioid-use-disorder-with-mothers-to-beHonoring Culture: A Public Health Approach http://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/27/honoring-culture-a-public-health-approach
By: Ramon Bonzon, M.P.H., Public Health Advisor, Targeted Populations Branch, SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
November is National Native American Heritage Month. During this time, we celebrate and pay tribute to the rich ancestry and traditions of Native Americans and Alaskan Natives. We also shine a spotlight on some of the unique needs of their communities and some of the health disparities they face. Health outcomes for these communities are worse than the larger U.S. population in many ways. Whether it is from a higher rate of unintentional injuries, suicide or chronic liver disease, the life expectancy of American Indian and Alaskan Natives is five and a half years less than the larger U.S. population. SAMHSA is partnering with tribes and tribal organizations to reduce health disparities and promote better overall health.
2018-11-27 01:24:57SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/27/honoring-culture-a-public-health-approachSupporting Those Who Servehttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/07/supporting-those-who-serve
By: Cicely K. Burrows-McElwain, LSCW-C, Military and Veteran Affairs Liasion, SAMHSA's Office of Policy, Planning and Development
In or out of uniform, many service members return home to communities where they continue to lead and contribute. For some military personnel, returning home can be challenging. And the impact of deployment and trauma-related stress not only affects military members and veterans but also their families and others who may provide support.
Many military personnel fear they will experience discrimination for seeking or receiving behavioral health treatment services. Our friends, family, and neighbors may be struggling and not recognize the signs, or they may not feel comfortable asking for help.2018-11-07 03:11:05SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/11/07/supporting-those-who-serveSAMHSA Joins with Entertainers Torrey and Liberty DeVitto to Emphasize the Dangers of Underage Drinking and Substance Use http://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/30/samhsa-joins-with-entertainers-torrey-and-liberty-devitto-to-emphasize-the-dangers-of-underage-drinking-and-substance-use
By: Robert M. Vincent, Public Health Analyst, SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
During adolescence, young people have new life experiences and enjoy greater freedom but are also exposed to peer pressure. One result of peer pressure is that many teens experiment with alcohol and other substances. According to SAMHSA’s 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an estimated 7.4 million people ages 12 to 20 reported consuming alcohol in the past month. The data also found that – in addition to alcohol – marijuana, prescription pain relievers and cigarettes were the next three substances used most frequently by youth trying a substance for the first time.2018-10-30 02:50:42SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/30/samhsa-joins-with-entertainers-torrey-and-liberty-devitto-to-emphasize-the-dangers-of-underage-drinking-and-substance-useSafely Dispose of Prescription Drugs – National Prescription Take Back Day 2018http://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/26/safely-dispose-of-prescription-drugs-national-prescription-take-back-day-2018
By: Frances M. Harding, Director, SAMHSA’s Center for Substance Abuse Prevention
Results from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) show that an estimated 6.0 million Americans aged 12 or older misused psychotherapeutic drugs (pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives) at least once in the past month.
Prescription drug misuse continues to be a major public health problem in the United States, specifically prescription pain relievers. Misuse of prescription pain relievers represents the second most common type of illicit drug use. Prescription drug misuse is use of a drug in any way not directed by a doctor or other prescriber. This includes:2018-10-26 08:06:03SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/26/safely-dispose-of-prescription-drugs-national-prescription-take-back-day-2018New Tool Offers Hope to People Experiencing Early Serious Mental Illness and their Familieshttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/11/new-tool-offers-hope-to-people-experiencing-early-serious-mental-illness-and-their-families
By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
One of the most important advances in treating serious mental illness in recent years is improving care for people experiencing a first onset of serious mental illness. We know that early phases of psychosis can be identified, and that team based coordinated specialty care treatment reduces the likelihood of long-term disability. SAMHSA’s new Early Serious Mental Illness Treatment Locator will help connect people experiencing a first onset of serious mental illness to effective care.
Similar to SAMHSA’s Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator, this online tool users to search for specialty programs that treat early serious mental illness, including first episode psychosis. Each program listing includes eligibility criteria, including age range and diagnoses treated, services provided, location and contact information. This information can serve as a lifeline to people who urgently need help.2018-10-11 04:17:41SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/11/new-tool-offers-hope-to-people-experiencing-early-serious-mental-illness-and-their-familiesUsing Data to Improve Effective Responses to Individuals in Crisishttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/11/using-data-to-improve-effective-responses-to-individuals-in-crisis
By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
2018-10-11 04:12:52SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/11/using-data-to-improve-effective-responses-to-individuals-in-crisisFrom a Physician Assistant in Fairbanks to a Vending Machine in Interior Alaska: Witnessing Tribal Health Solutions Firsthandhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/10/from-a-physician-assistant-in-fairbanks-to-a-vending-machine-in-interior-alaska-witnessing-tribal-health-solutions-firsthand
By: Eric D. Hargan, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services
Cross posted from the HHS Blog
Summary: After visiting tribal communities in interior Alaska, Deputy Secretary Hargan praised the quality of care at Alaska Native health facilities.
A key piece to success in serving the American people involves going to them in person and hearing what is important in their lives. That was the reason that a large delegation from HHS recently made the trip to the interior of Alaska.
Our delegation visited with Alaska Native community leaders and families in Allakaket, Alatna, Hughes, Koyukuk, Manley, Tanana, Rampart, and Fairbanks. Through community meetings and tours of healthcare facilities, we heard about everything from the latest in Telehealth technology and medicine “vending machines” to Head Start and eldercare and the continuing challenges of clean drinking water and waste disposal.2018-10-10 02:50:22SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/10/from-a-physician-assistant-in-fairbanks-to-a-vending-machine-in-interior-alaska-witnessing-tribal-health-solutions-firsthandLet’s Help our Youth Change the Way They Look at Mental Healthhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/10/lets-help-our-youth-change-the-way-they-look-at-mental-health
By: Anita Everett, M.D., DFAPA, Chief Medical Officer
Mental health is central to everyone’s well-being, particularly adolescents, teens, and young adults. Our youth are active in their communities where they initiate growth, lead and contribute. However, in many cases, some young people face additional challenges that can take a toll on their well-being, including suffering from mental illness. This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) has chosen youth as the focus of World Mental Health Day 2018 with its theme, “Young People and Mental Health in a Changing World.”2018-10-10 02:33:49SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/10/lets-help-our-youth-change-the-way-they-look-at-mental-healthFor Beating the Opioid Crisis, America has Better Weapons than Fentanyl Test Stripshttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/03/for-beating-the-opioid-crisis-america-has-better-weapons-than-fentanyl-test-strips
By: Elinore F. McCance-Katz, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use
The opioids crisis is affecting communities across the nation. The disease of opioid use disorder does not discriminate. As the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, I believe strongly that we must do all we can to stem the tide of this crisis; however, I believe we must take measured, well-thought-out and responsible steps to do this.
The temptation to develop seemingly quick solutions is understandable but I urge the nation to proceed instead with caution.2018-10-03 02:18:44SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/10/03/for-beating-the-opioid-crisis-america-has-better-weapons-than-fentanyl-test-stripsWhy Should Providers Ask this Critical Question…?http://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/09/24/why-should-providers-ask-this-critical-question
By: Elinore F. McCance-Katz, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Secretary of Mental Health and Substance Use
When individuals enter the field of healthcare, they are driven by a passion to assist others in achieving their best state of wellness. No matter their respective professional backgrounds, all health providers recognize the value of strong screening and assessments. We spend time and effort in screening to ensure that quality care can be delivered. Ideally, care that is both person-centered and that results in individualized treatment planning that meets the needs of the unique patient.
2018-09-24 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/09/24/why-should-providers-ask-this-critical-questionPreventing Suicide in Tribal Communities—and Beyondhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/09/19/preventing-suicide-in-tribal-communities-and-beyond
By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
Each September 10, the International Association for Suicide Prevention sponsors World Suicide Prevention Day. Here in the United States, overall suicide rates have increased significantly since 1999 in almost every state, but suicide affects some groups far more than others. As we observe World Suicide Prevention Day, I’d like to call attention to the effect suicide has on tribal communities.
American Indian and Alaska Native youth ages 15-24 die by suicide at a rate four times the overall rate for this age group. Alarmingly, these suicides often occur in clusters—multiple suicides within a social group or small community in a short time.2018-09-19 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/09/19/preventing-suicide-in-tribal-communities-and-beyondRecovery Month: A Time of Celebration and Hopehttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/09/04/recovery-month-a-time-of-celebration-and-hope
By: Chideha M. Ohuoha, M.D., M.P.H., CAPT (USPHS), Director, SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
September is National Recovery Month. We celebrate the millions of Americans who are living their lives in recovery from mental and substance use disorders and honor those who work to make recovery possible. We also take time to remember the people who have lost their lives and those who still need help.2018-09-04 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/09/04/recovery-month-a-time-of-celebration-and-hopeOverdose is a Cry for Helphttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/08/31/overdose-is-a-cry-for-help
By: Chideha M. Ohuoha, M.D., M.P.H., CAPT (USPHS), Director, SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
Earlier this month there was news that over 90 people overdosed on synthetic marijuana laced with the powerful opioid fentanyl at a park in New Haven, Conn. Thankfully, no one died of an overdose that day due to the quick response from emergency personnel. Such stories remind us that people across the country are struggling with addiction to illicit substances and opioid-based pain medications. In 2017, the lives of over 72,000 Americans ended prematurely due to overdose, which is now the leading cause of death for people under 50 years old.2018-08-31 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/08/31/overdose-is-a-cry-for-helpThis School Year, Let’s Erase Bullyinghttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/08/17/this-school-year-lets-erase-bullying
By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
As children across the country are starting their school years, their parents and guardians are taking steps to make sure they’re equipped with the needed supplies and clothes that fit. Let’s be sure to equip them with the tools to help prevent bullying. If not stopped, bullying results in real and lasting mental health effects. It is a repeated behavior that can take the form of physical, verbal, or emotional abuse. It is often based on the imbalance of power such as physical strength, popularity, or holding hurtful information. In fact, many children and adolescents are hesitant to talk about being bullied or to acknowledge that they are bullying others. SAMHSA is working to educate young people, parents, teachers, and community leaders about what they can do to prevent bullying.2018-08-17 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/08/17/this-school-year-lets-erase-bullyingMinority Mental Health Awareness Month: Closing the Treatment Gaphttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/07/31/minority-mental-health-awareness-month-closing-the-treatment-gap
By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Each year, SAMHSA joins the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health to promote the message that prevention works, treatment is effective, and people recover. This month also presents an opportunity to reflect on how the behavioral health system can connect more effectively with people across different cultural backgrounds and experiences. Data from our National Survey on Drug Use and Health show that members of racial and ethnic minority groups are significantly less likely to receive services for any mental illness, than are non-Hispanic whites. In order to close the treatment gap and eliminate health disparities, SAMHSA works to help connect people who need these services the most.
2018-07-31 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/07/31/minority-mental-health-awareness-month-closing-the-treatment-gapRaising Awareness of PTSD Associated with Mass Violence or Natural Disastershttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/07/03/raising-awareness-of-ptsd-associated-with-mass-violence-or-natural-disasters
By: Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
Each June, SAMHSA works with National Center for PTSD in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to raise awareness of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD refers to a mental health condition that some people develop after witnessing or experiencing a life-threatening or unusually violent event. Although PTSD is often associated with military combat, it can have many causes, including domestic violence, abuse or neglect, sexual assault, accidental injury or natural disasters.
Recent headlines highlight the need to understand what PTSD is and how people can get help. Natural disasters like hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, wildfires and flooding can have a lasting impact on those who are forced to flee nature’s path. We also know that exposure to violence can have a traumatic effect, even on those who escape physical harm.2018-07-03 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/07/03/raising-awareness-of-ptsd-associated-with-mass-violence-or-natural-disastersPromoting Safety from Opioid Overdosehttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/06/20/promoting-safety-from-opioid-overdose
By: Captain Chideha Ohuoha, M.D., M.P.H., Director, SAMHSA Center for Substance Abuse Treatment
One hundred fifteen Americans die every day from opioid overdose. Whether a person deliberately misuses a prescription opioid or uses an illicit drug such as heroin, these deaths are all preventable. It’s up to us—emergency medical personnel, healthcare professionals, and community members who witness and respond to overdoses—to learn what we can do to prevent opioid misuse.
Since 2017, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued more than $1 billion in grants to support access to opioid-related treatment, prevention and recovery. We have also published resources to support prevention and treatment providers.2018-06-20 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/06/20/promoting-safety-from-opioid-overdoseLeadership Announcementhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/06/15/leadership-announcement
By: Elinore F. McCance-Katz, M.D., Ph.D., Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use
Captain Chideha Ohuoha, M.D., M.P.H.It is my pleasure to announce that Capt. Chideha Ohuoha, M.D., MPH, has joined SAMHSA as the new Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. The mission of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment is to promote community-based substance abuse treatment and recovery services for individuals and families in every community. The Center provides national leadership to improve access, reduce barriers, and promote high quality, effective treatment and recovery services.2018-06-15 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/06/15/leadership-announcementFirst National Older Adults Mental Health Awareness Day: It's About Timehttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/17/first-national-older-adults-mental-health-awareness-day-its-about-time
Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
2018-05-17 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/17/first-national-older-adults-mental-health-awareness-day-its-about-timeSAMHSA broadens access to mental health and substance abuse data to American communities while saving taxpayers moneyhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/16/samhsa-broadens-access-to-mental-health-and-substance-abuse-data-to-american-communities-while-saving-taxpayers-money
Dr. Elinore F. McCance-Katz, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, SAMHSA
2018-05-16 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/16/samhsa-broadens-access-to-mental-health-and-substance-abuse-data-to-american-communities-while-saving-taxpayers-moneyThe HIV Testing Sites & Care Services Locator Can Help You Serve Your Audiencehttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/15/the-hiv-testing-sites-care-services-locator-can-help-you-serve-your-audience
By: HIV.govCross-posted from the HIV.gov Blog
HIV.gov readers know that getting people in your community tested and into care is an essential part of addressing the HIV epidemic. For program managers, it’s an ongoing job that requires a broad array of tools, knowledge, and skills. But wait, clients may want to confidentially learn about services when your organization is closed.
HIV.gov provides the HIV Testing Sites & Care Services Locator as a tool to help you serve your audience at all hours. With its location-based information, your site visitors can search at any time for federally funded testing services, housing providers, health centers, and other service providers.2018-05-15 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/15/the-hiv-testing-sites-care-services-locator-can-help-you-serve-your-audienceShining a Light on Healing from Childhood Traumahttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/09/shining-a-light-on-healing-from-childhood-trauma
Dr. Elinore F. McCance-Katz, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, SAMHSA
You may have brought the dark, but together we will shine a light.Students of Parkland High School wrote these lyrics to their song, “Shine,” in response to the violence that took the lives of their classmates and teachers in February. These lyrics remind us that mass violence affects not only those who are killed or physically injured, but those who are traumatized by losing loved ones or by witnessing violence. However, the lyrics also remind us that we can heal from trauma.2018-05-09 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/09/shining-a-light-on-healing-from-childhood-traumaMental Health Awareness Month: Offering More Possibilitieshttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/08/mental-health-awareness-month-offering-more-possibilities
Paolo del Vecchio, M.S.W., Director, SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services
2018-05-08 12:00:00SAMHSAhttp://blog.samhsa.gov/2018/05/08/mental-health-awareness-month-offering-more-possibilities